2. In order to reduce one's carbon footprint, which actions most closely align with the passage's recommendations?

Answer: A

Explanation:

Drive a hybrid vehicle and reduce reliance on single-use plastics.

Taking action to drive a hybrid vehicle and reduce reliance on single-use plastics aligns closely with the passage's emphasis on reducing carbon footprints through specific lifestyle changes. The passage mentions that driving a fuel-efficient vehicle and reducing dependence on single-use plastics can significantly lower carbon emissions.

A) Drive a hybrid vehicle and reduce reliance on single-use plastics.

This option is correct as it directly reflects the passage's recommendations for reducing carbon footprints. The text highlights that using fuel-efficient vehicles contributes to lower emissions, and reducing single-use plastics is mentioned as a key action to minimize carbon footprints due to the fossil fuel consumption associated with plastic production.

B) Recycle household waste and plant trees in their backyard.

While recycling is beneficial for the environment, the passage does not specifically mention planting trees as a method to reduce carbon footprints. Therefore, this option partially aligns with environmental actions but does not fully capture the specific recommendations provided in the passage.

C) Use public transportation and limit electricity usage.

Although using public transportation can help reduce carbon emissions, the passage does not discuss limiting electricity usage as a direct means to reduce one's carbon footprint. Thus, this option does not fully align with the recommendations highlighted in the text.

D) Avoid international travel and purchase biodegradable products.

This option suggests avoiding international travel, which is not mentioned in the passage as a method to reduce carbon footprints. Additionally, while purchasing biodegradable products is environmentally friendly, it is not specifically addressed in the context of reducing carbon footprints in the provided extract.

Conclusion

Option A is definitively correct as it encompasses two specific actions recommended in the passage for reducing carbon footprints: driving a fuel-efficient vehicle and minimizing single-use plastic consumption. Other options either misinterpret the passage's focus or include actions not mentioned in the context of carbon footprint reduction, making them less relevant to the core recommendations provided.